Few things in the corporate world generate such vociferous reactions as the performance review. Held annually, employees meet face-to-face with their judge, jury and potential executioner. Sometimes, the outcome is positive, with the employee relishing a well-earned pat on the back, hefty bonus or promise of better things to come. Other times, well, the experience is not quite so pleasant.

The first tip about making complaints is perhaps an obvious one, but a difficult one to follow all the same: Don't get angry. But there are some other easy guidelines to follow to help you to both stay calm and still get what you want. A good tip is to sit down and prepare your complaint in advance of any phone call or face-to-face conversation.